BetBlocker adds Japanese language version

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BetBlocker, a free-to-use self-exclusion app, has expanded its software by providing a Japanese language variant.

BetBlocker launched in 2017 to enable anonymous self-restriction on online and mobile gambling platforms. It has around 40,000 users.

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Since its launch, BetBlocker has strived to increase it’s the number of languages featured so more people can access the scheme.

BetBlocker referenced two studies in explaining its expansion into Japan. The first, released in 2020, revealed that the number of native Japanese speakers had increased to 123 million people.

The second, published in 2024 by the peer-reviewed journal BMC Public Health, noted that out of 126 million Japanese citizens, 39 million admitted to having gambled in 2019, and a further 4.4 million had experienced gambling-related financial difficulties.

BetBlocker, in collaboration with translator and philanthropist Kenta Shintani, has released the Japanese version of its software program in the hope that Japanese speakers may benefit.

BetBlocker Founder and Trustee Duncan Garvie said, “BetBlocker has managed to translate its services into many languages and has significantly accelerated the rollout of new language support over the last six months. However, the vast majority of our support has been focused on languages originating in Europe.”

“Being able to extend the service to an important Asian community is a significant milestone for BetBlocker, helping us move towards the truly international ethos that the service has always wanted.

“We’re very honoured to have the support of civic minded citizens like Mr Shintani. Their support invariably has a positive impact on hundreds of lives every single day, ensuring that the people of Japan can access the support that blocking software offers.”